Apple seems way behind in artificial intelligence compared to other tech giants. I’m wondering if they might just buy OpenAI instead of trying to catch up on their own.
Here’s what makes me think this could happen:
Apple has around $150 billion cash sitting there
OpenAI is valued at roughly $100 billion, so Apple could afford it
The recent partnership between them looks pretty one-sided in Apple’s favor
Johnny Ive joining OpenAI creates more connections between the companies
Apple used to have this strategy where they’d wait and then release something better than everyone else. But with AI, they already jumped in and their stuff isn’t great. Some basic features keep getting delayed which reminds me of that AirPower mess.
Since AI is supposed to be huge like the internet was, I don’t think Apple shareholders want to wait 5-6 years for them to maybe catch up. Getting someone like Altman could solve their leadership problems too.
What do you think? Does this acquisition make sense or am I missing something?
I’ve worked in tech M&A for years, and this deal’s way more complex than people think. OpenAI’s $100B valuation is pure speculation - it’s based on what they might do, not what they’re actually making now. Apple doesn’t touch risky valuations like this. They want proven business models. The integration would be a nightmare. OpenAI moves fast and breaks things, while Apple’s methodical about everything. Apple’s whole thing is tight hardware-software integration, but OpenAI builds general AI that works everywhere. These approaches don’t mesh. Here’s the kicker - OpenAI’s top researchers didn’t join for money. They’re there for the mission and culture. Apple would lose most of the talent they’re trying to buy, which makes the whole acquisition pointless. My bet? Apple keeps licensing OpenAI’s tech while quietly buying smaller, specialized AI companies that actually fit their product plans.
I find it unlikely that Apple will pursue an acquisition of OpenAI. Given the scrutiny Apple is already facing from the DOJ regarding its App Store practices, acquiring a major AI player could invite even more antitrust challenges. The European Union is particularly strict about competition rules, which would complicate any potential deal significantly. Moreover, OpenAI’s governance model, with its nonprofit board, clashes with Apple’s preference for streamlined control and decision-making. Their corporate cultures differ vastly, with OpenAI promoting transparency and collaboration, while Apple is known for its secrecy. It’s more plausible that Apple will bolster existing partnerships and acquire smaller AI firms that fit their specific needs instead of trying to absorb OpenAI entirely, thereby avoiding regulatory hurdles and integration issues.